UA Mirror Lab Tours

HAVE YOU EVER SEEN A TELESCOPE MIRROR THREE-STORIES IN DIAMETER? Our 90-minute tour provides a unique opportunity to learn how innovative engineering and optical technology melds with manufacturing techniques to produce the largest and most advanced giant (8.4 meters / 27 ft)  telescope MIRRORS IN THE WORLD! Visitors will see the unparalleled technology and revolutionary processes involved in making the next generation of telescopes that will explore deep into outer space and produce cutting-edge scientific research.    The University of ARIZONA's Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory are ranked #1 in Astronomy programs in the United States by the National Science Foundation (NSF).  Come see one of the reasons why!  NOTE: Tour participants MUST BE ABLE TO ASCEND AND DESCEND STAIRS and stand for periods of time. Our tour is about 50/50 for sitting and standing. We suggest our participants be 10+ years aged.  Upon your purchase, your name will be added to our check-in list.  In order to save paper and trees, we do not issue tickets. Participants do not need to print tickets. Your reservation name will be on our check-in list.  WE TAKE YOUR SAFETY SERIOUSLY! The Richard F Caris Mirror Lab is a working laboratory, research, and development facility where we handle priceless optics and use extremely heavy equipment in close quarters. Under no circumstances are our guests to call-out or interact with those performing work duties, or stop them to ask questions. Our docents and tour leaders are the only individuals at the Richard F Caris Mirror Lab that guests may interact with. Thank you for your understanding.